Changes – more than doing self -care “things”

I haven’t written in my blog in a long time. Not because I didn’t want to. Not because I didn’t think of a million and one things along the way I wanted to write about. But, because I’ve been busy. Not normally busy, but crazy busy. The type of busy where you don’t have a single moment for yourself. So, here I am, in Late January writing my first blog in months (maybe since last spring??). And, what’s interesting is that the last few weeks have been some of the longest days I’ve ever worked. You would think I’d be too busy to write. However, I find that I am NEEDING to write. To get it out. To share what I can. So today I will reflect on change. Change that is for self-healing and self-care, not for others. Here it goes…

In the last year I’ve written a lot of about self-care. I’ve told you about my planned out spa days 4x a year to relax and take care of my mental well-being. I’ve told you about books I’ve read, walking my dogs, and taking time for me. But, what I haven’t reflected on till now is self-care that is bigger and all encompassing. Self-care that requires life changes beyond a day off or taking time for yourself. I turned 44 recently. And for some reason, something about this age has resonated with me. No, I’m not in a mid-life crisis (although my Vespa scooter purchase this summer would lead some to believe that!). But, it did make me realize that if I live to a good old healthy age, that I’m easily over half way finished with this life. That’s a pretty sobering thought. And, when you couple that thought with the fact that I’m not super happy with some things in my life, it makes one think and reflect upon what can be done to change that.

Up until now, I’ve been plugging away at life. Work, kids, spouse, friends…trying to be all to everyone. The last handful of years I’ve tried to work on self-care. I’ve done all the “things”, but they don’t seem to be working. I exercise, eat pretty decent, take time for myself, do things that are fun for me (puzzling, reading), travel…and a bunch of other “things”. What I think I’m beginning to realize is that it isn’t the things I do, but what is happening in my life. So I’ve made some pretty huge decisions the last few days. Decisions that have been floating around in my mind for a while now, but they felt more like ideas, wants, or maybes…never something that could be reality.

While I am not going to share those decisions today, I can say that I woke up feeling very free this morning. The sun was shining (that always helps), but I felt a peace of mind that I am taking active steps towards positive changes for myself…more than just doing “things”. And don’t worry, I’ll share when it’s time 🙂

So today I work on changes. Changes to ensure that the 2nd half of my life is filled with love, joy, happiness, and above all, what I want it to be. And while I know there will still be challenges ahead, rough/hard times, and difficulties (I’m not that rosy eyed!), I also know that it’s a move in the right direction.

My friends, family, and all those that I don’t know but follow me – thanks for all of your support and love. It keeps me fueled and moving forward to do the good work. I’m going to write more in my blog and update…so stay tuned for more details and info to come!

The Positive Principal,

Stephanie